Prunus

Masses of fragrant white flowers appear on this small, somewhat thorny native fruit tree in spring before the leaves appear. Sends up suckers from the root system, and will eventually form a thicket if allowed to. The fruits, which begin ripening here around the start of September, are reddish in color, slightly oblong, about 1" in diameter. The flesh of the fruits is pleasantly flavored. Wild plums are popular with some people for eating out of hand; they are also suited for use in baked goods and preserves. Bearing tends to be rather erratic, but in most years at least some fruit is produced, and sometimes there are bumper crops. The fruit has been pest-free in our plantings. The trees provide good cover for wildlife, and the fruit is of some food value to wild creatures.

A most appealing shrub or small tree, with neat, compact form and small, glossy leaves. Bears a profusion of white blossoms in spring before the leaves appear, followed by 3/4" diameter yellow to purple fruits in late summer. Fruits are not usually eaten fresh, but are highly regarded for making preserves. As might be expected for a plant which grows naturally along the seashore, beach plum is notably tolerant of poor, sandy or rocky soil and salt spray.

A large, graceful tree with neat, glossy foliage. The trees are covered with clusters of small white flowers in May. The small black cherries, which ripen in late summer, have a rich, winey flavor. They can also be used to make a dark, rich jelly which is considered by some to be the finest of jellies. As the fruits are also very attractive to birds, wild black cherry is useful for distracting birds from other crops. Also an important timber tree, wild black cherry is the main species used for cherry furniture and veneer.